Advertising Law of the People’s Republic of China was promulgated in 1994, and amended in 2015, 2018 and 2021 respectively. The latest revision entered into force on 29 Apr. 2021.

There are 74 articles in total. The Law aims to regulate advertising activities, protect the legitimate rights and interests of consumers and maintain social and economic order.

The key points are as follows:

1.This Law shall apply to commercial advertising activities within the territory of the People’s Republic of China by commodity operators or service providers to promote their goods or services directly or indirectly via certain media and in certain forms.

2.The State Administration for Market Regulation under State Council shall be responsible for advertising supervision and administration nationwide, and local administration for market regulation of county level and above shall be responsible for advertising supervision and administration within their respective administrative regions.

3.The mass media targeted at minors shall not publish advertisements for medical services, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, medical instruments, cosmetics, alcohol, and beauty products, as well as advertisements for online games adverse to the physical and mental health of minors.

4.The provisions of this Law shall apply to the conduct of advertising activities through the Internet. Publishing or sending advertisements through the Internet shall not affect users’ normal use of the Internet. Advertisements published on the Internet in the pop-up or other forms shall conspicuously show a close indication to ensure the close by one click.